Chapter 200

Simon York froze in place.

His eyes widened in disbelief as Alexander Kingsley and Winston Strauss emerged side by side from the room.

How could it be them?

Why were they together?

More terrifyingly—how much had they overheard?

Cold sweat drenched Simon's back as he mentally replayed his conversation with Evelyn Sinclair.

"You took Isabella Winslow's money?" Alexander's voice cut like a blade.

Simon's legs trembled. "N-no, that's not—"

He frantically pointed at Evelyn. "She wrote the article—"

"So you didn't personally admit to taking bribes?" Alexander interrupted, his gaze sharp as steel.

Simon shuddered.

He never imagined facing Alexander under these circumstances.

"Winston, what's happening?" A calm male voice spoke from behind.

Winston Strauss approached leisurely, his eyes lingering briefly on Evelyn's face.

"Journalistic dispute," Winston replied in fluent Mandarin, his tone languid.

Lance Yeager stepped forward smoothly. "This reporter claims they'll pay the deposit soon."

"Soon?" Winston's voice turned dangerously soft. "Meaning not yet?"

"Correct." Lance smiled at Simon. "Apologies. The interview is canceled."

Simon paled. "Mr. Yeager—"

Security guards already moved to forcibly escort him out.

Stumbling backward, Simon shot Evelyn a venomous glare.

If he couldn't get this scoop, neither would she.

......

The hallway regained silence.

Lance studied Evelyn with interest. "You're also a journalist?"

Evelyn handed him her business card with practiced ease. "Horizon Media. We've corresponded."

"Evelyn Sinclair..." Lance murmured, admiration flashing in his eyes. "A beautiful name."

As he reached for his own card, two piercing stares halted him.

Alexander's expression darkened. Winston arched an amused brow.

"Made your decision?" Alexander demanded coldly.

Evelyn blinked. "About what?"

"Lunch." His voice turned glacial.

Winston and Lance exchanged surprised glances.

"I—" Evelyn began.

"Forget it." Alexander turned to Winston. "Reservations are set."

Winston nodded. "The interview can wait."

Lance gave Evelyn a regretful look before retreating behind Winston.

"Move." Alexander suddenly yanked Evelyn against his chest.

Under the stunned gazes of Winston and Lance, his arm locked possessively around her waist.

As the four reached a corridor turn, Alexander abruptly pinned Evelyn to the wall.

"Not happy to see me?" His low voice carried a dangerous edge.